May is National Electrical Safety Month and I&M is encouraging customers to make electrical safety a priority. All month long we are sharing important reminders and facts about electricity safety.
It’s important to keep safety in mind when gardening and making home improvements. Below are five tips to keep safe as you work outdoors.
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Avoid overhead power lines. Tree trimming is a common task this time of year. Please be sure to look up before starting any trimming. If a tree or limb is near a power line and is a hazard, call I&M at 1-800-311-4634 to report it. Also, do not use ladders near power lines.
- Check and maintain outdoor wiring. Before starting any project, inspect outdoor extension cords and outlets. Check for damaged or frayed wires or cracked outlets. If you notice any signs of wear, plan to replace or repair these before use. Please make sure to use outdoor rated extension cords and weatherproof covers to protect outlets.
- Call before you dig. Buried utility lines are everywhere - some just inches below ground. Installing mailboxes, putting up a fence and planting a bush or garden are examples of projects that require you to know what’s below before digging. Hitting a line can knock out service to your home and neighborhood or result in fines, damage and serious injury. Call 811 or go to Call811.com every time you dig.
- Plan before you plant. Make sure you consider the lifespan of the plant and its proximity to power lines and equipment before planting. Think about height, canopy spread, growth rate, form and shape of the plant. For more information on planting and proximity to power lines, click here.
- Use caution with gardening equipment. When mowing or cutting bushes, check for any cables or other hazards in the yard. Follow all safety manual instructions for properly operating outdoor electrical equipment. Also, make sure to wear gloves and safety glasses to protect you from harm.
At I&M, staying safe around electricity is something we focus on daily and encourage our customers to have the same mindset. For more safety information visit IndianaMichiganPower.com/Safety.
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